Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/02/21
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I would like to add one thing not mentioned yet. Snakes can strike at least 1/2 of their body length and in any direction. They are very flexible, so consider the full 360 degrees and don't be fooled by the crock hunter, he too gets bitten! As to the length of rattlers I've personally had run ins with 6 and 7 footers and I've seen the skins of longer ones than that. These were the eastern diamond back rattlers. Cheers Wilber GFE tel. 803-469-2440 http://www.jeffcoatphotography.com Thomas Herbert wrote: > After having photographed these snakes for years I will give you what I > know. > > These snakes will always try to avoid you whenever possible, but if cornered > will strike. > > A 200 or 300 mm lens is good, I use an extension tube to increase my ability > to focus close-up. > > A gun will do you no good until after the fact (if you are bitten). If you > are not a snake expert then actually killing and taking the snake with you > to the hospital will help identify the proper species and thus the correct > anti-venom. > > Many people are very allergic to the anti-venom which is made from horse > serum, so they will test you for allergy before giving you any if you are > bitten. If you are allergic then you have a problem. Although most snake > bites don't result in the transfer of venom you can still get an infection > from the puncture wounds. > > Maintaining at least five feet from the snake will probably keep you safe. > Snakes can typically strike to a distance of half the length of their body > and I haven't seen many rattlers over five feet long. > > Have a safety person with you with a long stick to control or handle snakes > that get to close. > > That's it > > Thomas Herbert, Photojournalist > (915) 546-2342 > (915) 485-3018 pager > (559) 677-8961 fax > iphoto@elp.rr.com - --